Wellness experiences worth travelling overseas for
Are you feeling the need to reset and recharge? It could be time to dig out your passport!
Aussie travellers are incorporating health and well-being into their overseas jaunts more than ever before, says new research.
Travel website TripAdvisor found global bookings for wellness experiences jumped 69 per cent last year, with 34 per cent more Aussies taking up health-boosting holidays.
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Here are top global wellness experiences, as rated by TripAdvisor users:
1. Szechenvi Spa in Budapest, Hungary
This world-famous thermal springs spa, found in a country celebrated since Roman times for its baths, is top of the pops when it comes to global wellness experiences.
It might be something to do with the medicinal nature of the 18 natural spring baths, all set within the walls of a stunning, richly decorated Neo-baroque palace. Splish splash.
2. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, New Zealand
The land of the long white cloud never disappoints when it comes to natural beauty and this geothermal attraction has also been named of the 20 most surreal places in the world.
Thousands of years in the making, the area boasts an astonishing Champagne Pool (named for its colour), natural springs, bubbling mud and huge craters.
And that’s just for starters.
3. Arabian Baths Experience at Granada’s Hammam Al Andalus, Spain
Subterranean serenity. Candlelit walkways. Opulent Arabian baths. And all at the foot of the palatial and impressive historic Alhambra Palace and Fort complex.
You had us at hello.
4. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon, Reykjavik, Iceland
These days everyone is talking about Iceland, and we can see why.
All-natural heated pools set in the beyond-beautiful Icelandic countryside with nearby attractions including a famous waterfall, high-spouting geyser and national park? Yes, please.
5. Termas de Cacheuta, Argentina
Foodies love this one.
As well as soaking up the serenity at Argentina’s only grotto sauna surrounded by incredible views of the Andes mountains, your experience includes a delicious lunch of regional Creole specialities.
Nom nom!
6. La Fortuna hot springs, Costa Rica
More stunning beauty. More luxurious hot springs.
Settle back and take in the exotic plants, flowers and Costa Rican coffee trees, as well the natural wonder of the Arenal Volcano, all while you are pampered within an inch of your life.
7. So Thai Spa luxury spa package in Phuket, Thailand
The breath-taking scenery of this Thai resort island has formed the background to endless social media posts.
And no holiday on the island paradise of Phuket is complete without a soothing massage, scrubs and a facial, all in luxurious surrounds.
8. Peninsula Hot Springs, Australia
We were happy to see Australia gets a look in the Mornington Peninsula’s Hot Springs an hour south of Melbourne number eight on the list.
Now offering an ice cave and accompanying sauna for hot and cold therapy, as well as its many stunning pools and private baths of natural thermal mineral waters and a host of other experiences.
9. Thermae-Yu Hotspring in Shinjuku, Japan
Japan’s natural hot springs (onsen) are one of the country’s most popular cultural experiences and with Thermae-Yu situated right in the heart of Tokyo you can check out what all the fuss is about without venturing too far.
Drop in for a spot of relaxation after a night out in Shinjuku and try the hot spring baths and rotenburo, along with stone saunas, beauty salon, café, bar and restaurant.
And if you feel like staying closer to home, check out six of the best Aussie health retreats.
Written by Liz McGrath.
